India is one of the largest consumers and producers of steel in the world. To ensure that imported steel products meet Indian safety, quality, and performance standards, the Government of India has made certain regulatory compliances mandatory. One such important compliance is FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). A common question among importers and foreign manufacturers is: Is FMCS mandatory for importing steel products into India? The answer depends on the product’s classification and its inclusion under mandatory BIS certification.
Understanding FMCS Certification
The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is a certification framework under BIS that allows foreign manufacturers to obtain a BIS license to export regulated products to India. Under this scheme, BIS grants a license after assessing the manufacturing facility, product quality, testing procedures, and compliance with applicable Indian Standards (IS).
FMCS is applicable only when:
-
The product is manufactured outside India, and
-
The product is covered under mandatory BIS certification.
Applicability of FMCS for Steel Products
Yes, FMCS is mandatory for importing steel products into India if the specific steel product is notified under mandatory BIS certification. The Ministry of Steel and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) have notified several steel products under Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
Common steel products covered under mandatory BIS certification include:
-
Hot rolled and cold rolled steel sheets and coils
-
Galvanized steel products
-
Steel pipes and tubes
-
Tin plates and tin-free steel
-
Structural steel products
If a steel product falls under any such notified QCO, import without BIS FMCS certification is strictly prohibited, regardless of the country of origin.
Why FMCS is Mandatory for Steel Imports
The Indian government mandates FMCS for steel imports to:
-
Prevent the inflow of substandard or unsafe steel products
-
Ensure uniform quality standards across domestic and imported goods
-
Protect infrastructure projects, consumers, and industries
-
Promote fair trade and regulatory compliance
Steel is a critical raw material for construction, infrastructure, automobiles, and manufacturing. Poor-quality steel can lead to structural failures, safety risks, and economic losses.
Import Process Without FMCS: Is It Allowed?
If a steel product is covered under a BIS QCO:
-
Import without FMCS is not allowed
-
Customs authorities will reject or detain shipments
-
Goods may be re-exported or destroyed at the importer’s cost
However, FMCS is not required if:
-
The steel product is not listed under mandatory BIS certification
-
The import is for R&D, testing, or exhibition, subject to specific permissions
-
Temporary exemptions are granted by the government (rare and conditional)
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Importing steel products without mandatory FMCS certification can lead to:
-
Heavy financial penalties under the BIS Act
-
Seizure or confiscation of goods
-
Blacklisting of the importer or foreign manufacturer
-
Delays in customs clearance and loss of business credibility
Conclusion
To summarize, FMCS is mandatory for importing steel products into India when those products are covered under mandatory BIS certification or Quality Control Orders. Foreign manufacturers must obtain FMCS approval before exporting such steel products to India, and importers must ensure compliance before shipment. Understanding product applicability and securing certification in advance helps avoid legal issues, delays, and financial losses.
For smooth and compliant steel imports, it is always advisable to consult BIS certification experts who can guide you through the FMCS application, testing, factory audit, and licensing process efficiently.